Crampons or Microspikes For Snow?

[COSA]

Leaving on my unlimited hunt tomorrow and we received ~6" of snow. I'm thinking the microspikes for climbing steep boulder/shale/deadfall (~30 degree slopes) & since it's wet snow vs. ice? Am I wrong in thinking the crampons would not give as much traction on the boulders? Microspikes are also a full pound lighter than my crampons.

 

[bcimport]

Micro spikes have disappointed me in tough conditions. Not enough grip or getting pulled off the boots by brush and deadfall. Crampons seem like overkill 90% of the time but if it is steep and or slick they can't be beat. I carry mine when I'm hunting goats anytime after mid October.

 

[SLDMTN]

Leaving on my unlimited hunt tomorrow and we received ~6" of snow. I'm thinking the microspikes for climbing steep boulder/shale/deadfall (~30 degree slopes) & since it's wet snow vs. ice? Am I wrong in thinking the crampons would not give as much traction on the boulders? Microspikes are also a full pound lighter than my crampons.

Ran in mine just last night on Lazy Mtn over my Salomon Speedcross.

I don't hunt without them in my pack. They've saved my bacon several times on wet/snowy grass and rocks. Even creek crossings they're a life saver on slimy rocks. I took a brief swim on the last trip cause it was "an easy crossing" and didn't have them on.

I'm very partial to Kahtoola Microspikes specifically. I have seen other brands fail or not stay on the boot/shoe but the Kahtoolas work well for me.

On sheer ice they won't hold a candle to actual crampons though.

Good luck on the hunt too!

 

[Becca]

In some heavy wet snow conditions, I have had micro spikes collect a ton of snow under the sole of my boots and "ball up" to the point I was literally walking on 5" of hard packed snow under the ball of my foot. Not good.

I have had better luck with these ratcheting style trail crampons from hillsound, which have a plate under the foot to prevent snow from accumulating:
Hillsound Cypress6 - Crampons for Winter Footwear Traction- Ice Traction

In wet, half frozen conditions I would take any kind of spikes (micro or regular) over going without though. Nothing beats having traction When it's slick!

 

[COSA]

Thanks for the advice, think I'm going with the microspikes.

 

[6mm Remington]

I really like the Kahtoola microspikes and they have served me well!

 

[AK Troutbum]

Kahtoola's for me as well.

 

[mtnkid85]

This early wet snow we just got is going to ball up like crazy to anything and everything. I would take the micro spikes if your dead set on actually carrying one of them with you.

I am headed into the Beartooths tomorrow as well, looks like we are in for a wet early season.